The structure of Virginia’s local government is unique in the Unites States. Only here are cities and
counties entirely separate entities, independent of each other. Towns are part
of the counties where they are located, and their residents pay county as well
as town taxes for services. There are no towns located in Bedford County.
Government Policies are directed toward the economic and social development of
the Bedford area. Government attitude
toward business and industry is one of cooperation and support.
Both governments operate under fiscally sound management, and both have
comprehensive plans to monitor and guide development. The City and County
participate in revenue sharing for economic development.
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The seven-member Board of Supervisors is elected by the voters of Bedford County
and each represents an election district of about 8,600 citizens. The
supervisors
’ election terms are staggered and the Board elects its chairman and vice
chairman each year at the Board
’s organizational meeting in January.
The Board has overall administrative and legislative responsibilities including
the levying of county taxes, appropriating funds, approving and enforcing the
county
’s Comprehensive Plan, which governs land use, making and enforcing ordinances
and establishing policies and procedures for the residents of the county.
The Board of Supervisors meet twice monthly. Unless publicly announced otherwise, meetings are generally held on the second and fourth Mondays at 7:30 p.m. in the Board of
Supervisors meeting room on the top floor of the County Administration
Building, 122 East Main Street, Bedford.
Office of the County Administrator
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The City of Bedford operates with a council/manager form of government. The City
Council is comprised of elected members from which a mayor is selected. The
City government functions out of the municipal building located on Main Street
in Bedford.
